WDW Radio: Your Guide to Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Cruise and More Disney Magic!

Lou Mongello - Disney Expert

WDW Radio is the award-winning Disney podcast that brings the magic of Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Cruise Line, Marvel, and Star Wars to life. Since 2005, hosted by Lou Mongello – Disney expert, author, speaker, and Podcast Hall of Fame inductee – has been your trusted guide through the parks and beyond.

Each week, tune in for Disney news, vacation planning tips, interviews, trivia, deep dives into Disney history, attraction and dining reviews, hidden park secrets, and more. From first-timer visitors to lifelong fans, this family-friendly podcast shares the tips, stories, secrets, and insights to help you plan smarter, experience more, and feel the magic like never before.

Voted Best Travel Podcast 9 years in a row, WDW Radio also features a blog, videos, live shows, community meetups, group cruises, and special Disney fan events around the world.

WDW Radio has welcomed legendary guests including Julie Andrews, Tony Baxter, Marty Sklar, Alan Menken, Richard Sherman, Paige O’Hara, Jodi Benson, Kevin Feige, Ashley Eckstein, and countless Imagineers, Cast Members, actors, producers, and creators who bring Disney magic to life.

Explore Lou’s books (Walt Disney World Trivia, The Disney Interviews, 102 Ways to Save Money For and At Walt Disney World) and virtual Audio Tours at WDWRadio.com.

Lou is also the founder of the Dream Team Project, which has raised more than $550,000 to grant wishes for children to visit Walt Disney World through the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

Start listening now to discover the stories, secrets, and magic that make the Disney Parks, Cruise Line, Marvel, and Star Wars truly unforgettable.

🎙️ Learn more at WDWRadio.com

✨ Lou Mongello is an acclaimed keynote speaker and founder of Momentum – a transformative platform of events, coaching, courses, content, and community. He provides creators and entrepreneurs with practical guidance and inspiration to help turn passion into profession, build an audience with purpose, and grow a meaningful, sustainable business.

As a speaker, Lou shares powerful business and leadership lessons from the Disney Parks and Walt Disney himself, helping organizations improve storytelling, customer experience, company culture, and innovation through unforgettable, actionable presentations.

🔗 Discover more at LouMongello.com

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1,049 episodes
Updated Tuesday

Episodes1049

Newest first

Jun 2, 2008 · 1 hr 22 min
WDW Radio Show # 69 - June 1, 2008 - Your Walt Disney World Information Station
Welcome to the WDW Radio Show - Your Walt Disney World Information Station. Thank you for tuning in once again. This is show #69 for the week of June 1, 2008. I am your host Lou Mongello, coming to you this and every week bringing you the very best ways to enjoy and enhance your Walt Disney World vacation experience. In this week's Walt Disney World News, I'll discuss a new marathon coming to Walt Disney World in 2009, another way to bring some Disney magic to your iPod, and a new set of DVDs coming from Imagineering this Fall. My visit to the Walt Disney World Rumor Mill hints at a new way to purchase Disney theme park items right from home, parade changes coming to the Magic Kingdom, and possible confirmation of the Star Tours rumors. Speaking of Star Tours, Star Wars Weekends begins on June 6 and runs through the month, so I wanted to discuss the events, the different elements that make up each weekend, and how to get the most out of them, whether you are a Star Wars superfan or not. So I brought in George "Darth Sidious" Taylor and Glenn "Grand Moff Tarkin" Whelan to pull up a chair in the Cantina and join me in a roundtable discussion about the weekends. Steve Barrett and I trek through Conservation Station and Rafiki's Planet Watch hunting Hidden Mickeys, including the elusive one that can be found on a live animal as well. I'll answer some more of your emails this week, including questions on Illuminations, the Epcot 25 Exhibit, strollers and more. Listen for more voicemails at the end of the show, so sit back, relax, and enjoy this week's episode of the WDW Radio Show. Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com. Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!
May 26, 2008 · 1 hr 34 min
WDW Radio Show # 68 - May 25, 2008 - Your Walt Disney World Information Station
Welcome to the WDW Radio Show - your Walt Disney World Information Station. Thank you for tuning in once again. I am Lou Mongello, coming to you this and every week bringing you the very best ways to enjoy and enhance your Walt Disney World vacation experience. This is show #68 for the week of May 25, 2008. News from Walt Disney World includes some Prince Caspian sightings, a new restaurant opening at one of Disney's Resorts, as well as a welcome new addition to another restaurant, and changes coming to the Wide World of Sports. In the Walt Disney World Rumor Mill, I'll have an update to the Space Mountain rumors, a sponsor that may be moving out, and no longer Living with the Land, and a few hints at some other new rumors as well. With Star Wars Weekends rapidly approaching, and some rumors about this attraction resurfacing once again, there is no better time for Jeff and I to don our Jedi robes and do a DSI: Disney Scene Investigation of Star Tours at Disney's Hollywood Studios. We'll explore the history of the attraction, the story behind it, a exceptionally geeky look at the queue, the shop and what the future may hold. You don't need to be a Star Wars fan to enjoy the attraction or this segment… but it might just make them a little more fun. A few weeks ago, I had the opportunity to meet and chat with TC Newman, one of the two Walt Disney World Ambassadors about her role, what a day in her life is like, her duties and responsibilities, and so much more. It’s a look into one of the most highly-coveted roles in the grand Walt Disney World cast. I'll answer some more of your emails, play some voicemails, and tell you about some changes to the web site, as well as new free downloads you might enjoy. So sit back, relax and enjoy this week's episode of the WDW Radio Show. Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com. Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!
May 19, 2008 · 1 hr 9 min
WDW Radio Show # 67 - May 18, 2008 - Your Walt Disney World Information Station
Welcome to the WDW Radio Show - your Walt Disney World Information Station. Thank you for tuning in once again. I am Lou Mongello, coming to you this and every week bringing you the very best ways to enjoy and enhance your Walt Disney World vacation experience. This is show #67 for the week of May 18, 2008. This week's show is going to be just a little bit different from my normal show, as I just returned from Walt Disney World, where I was visiting to cover the new Toy Story Midway Mania attraction press event. So this show is going to be focused on the new E-Ticket attraction opening in Disney's Hollywood Studios later this month. I will first take a look at the event and attraction with Glenn Whelan, as we discuss everything from the new Pixar Studios area of the park, to the incredibly detailed queue and interactive ride experience. It's a spoiler-free review and preview of what Guests can look forward to enjoying for many years to come. Meg Crofton, President of the Walt Disney World Resort, also spoke about what is happening not just at the Studios, but around the Resort, and will share that audio with you as well I met with TC and Kerri, the two Walt Disney World Ambassadors, as they share their thoughts about Disney's newest attraction I had the opportunity to interview a number of Imagineers who worked on the attraction, including Senior Show Producer Chrissie Allen, Senior Concept Writer Kevin Rafferty, Senior Show Producer Laurie Coltrin, and Vice President of Disney's Hollywood Studios Rilous Carter. I'll share audio with their thoughts on the attraction, as well as those of authors Simon and Sharon Veness from a Brit's Guide to Walt Disney World, after experiencing the attraction for the first time. I'll also have an announcement about a new project I've been working on for some time now, so sit back, relax and enjoy this week's episode of the WDW Radio Show. Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com. Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!
May 11, 2008 · 1 hr 25 min
WDW Radio Show # 66 - May 11, 2008 - Your Walt Disney World Information Station
Welcome to the WDW Radio Show - your Walt Disney World Information Station. I am your host Lou Mongello, and I want to thank you for tuning in again this week. This is show #66 for the week of May 11, 2008. First things first – Happy Mother's Day to all moms and mothers to be. Now on to the show… There's no news this week, as I produced the show early in anticipation of my Walt Disney World trip, but I have a number of segments I think you'll enjoy. This week, I wanted to address a question that many of you have sent to me via email and voicemail, which involves staying off Disney property and renting a vacation home. Steve Trover, CEO of All Star Vacation Homes joins me to answer many of your frequently asked questions, as well as looks at the pros and cons of renting a vacation home, who is might be right for and who it’s not, addresses some possible concerns, and talks about the process. It's a great primer on renting a vacation home, and you just might be surprised as to some of the reasons why it might be a viable option for you and your family. One of the most important aspects of what I do is that of giving back to others with the help of so many people through my Dream Team Project. Of course, I'm certainly not the only one, and as I’ve done in the past, this week I want to profile someone who is truly making magic, and a very big difference, in the lives of children and families that need it most. He is Bert Weiss, a radio personality at Q100 in Atlanta and founder of Bert's Big Adventure, an all expense paid trip to Walt Disney World for families that have children with life-threatening illnesses. It is an inspirational story that once again demonstrates the incredible generosity and dedication of people in the community as a whole. I also welcome back Jeff Pepper to join me in exploring not just a hidden treasure and character connection, but a fun place to grab a hot dog and a Coke, ride the bleachers and catch a few toons. So we’ll take you out to the ballgame at Casey’s Corner on Main Street, USA. So to all you moms out there, sit back, relax and enjoy this week's episode of the WDW Radio Show. Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com. Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!
May 5, 2008 · 1 hr 39 min
WDW Radio Show # 65 - May 4, 2008 - Your Walt Disney World Information Station
Hello and welcome to the WDW Radio Show - your Walt Disney World Information Station. This is show #65 for the week of May 4, 2008. I am your host Lou Mongello, and I want to thank you for tuning in again this week. We'll begin this week as always with our look at the Walt Disney World News, where I talk about a number of news items, including the opening of Toy Story Mania, a welcome change for DVC members, and a number of special events going on in WDW, and one outside the parks where you might get a chance to peek behind the curtain of Imagineering and learn just how they create some of the Disney magic. Disney last week revealed the winner of the first-ever Chief Magic Official contest, and Justin Muchoney from Seven Fields, PA was named the winner out of more than 1300 applicants. Justin joins me, fresh off of the announcement to discuss the application process, rounds of judging, winning the contest, and what the future holds in this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. There is never a bad time to visit Walt Disney World, but many Guests, whether it be their first or fiftieth time visiting the Resort, have to decide when is the right time of year to go for them. Often, the question of going on or off-season comes up, as there are both benefits and concerns about traveling to Walt Disney World during both the busy season and less crowded times of year. So to discuss the factors to take into consideration, as well as some of the pros and cons of each, I welcome back Jeff Pepper and George Taylor, fans and family men, to have a roundtable discussion about just that topic. I'll answer a few more of your emails before playing some of your voicemails at the end of the show, so sit back, relax and enjoy this week's episode of the WDW Radio Show. You can email the show at lou@wdwradio.com or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW (4939). Visit the web site at wdwradio.com. Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com. Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!
Apr 28, 2008 · 1 hr 29 min
WDW Radio Show # 64 - April 27, 2008 - Your Walt Disney World Information Station
JAMBO and Welcome to the WDW Radio Show - your Walt Disney World Information Station. I am your host Lou Mongello, and I want to thank you for tuning in again this week. This is show #64 for the week of April 27, 2008. I spent a number of days last week in Walt Disney World covering Disney’s Animal Kingdom’s 10th Anniversary, and as promised, I brought back some wonderful audio from the event. In addition to a live recording of the opening rededication ceremonies, I was able to get one on one interviews with Val Bunting, Vice President of Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Jackie Ogden, vice president of animal programs and environmental initiatives, world-renowned primatologist Jane Goodall, and legendary Disney Imagineer Joe Rohde. I’ll also discuss the day’s event, the Wild Decade fan gathering, and a look back at the park, its mission and message with fellow attendees Eric Hollister and Glenn Whelan. I’ll also play audio from the presentation of the WDW Celebrations donation to the DisneyWorldTrivia.com Dream Team Project. I invite Jeff Pepper back to answer some more of your listener emails, and I’ll play more of your voicemails at the end of the show. So sit back, relax and enjoy this week’s episode of the WDW Radio Show. You can email the show at lou@wdwradio.com or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW (4939). Visit the web site at wdwradio.com. Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com. Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!
Apr 21, 2008 · 2 hr
WDW Radio Show # 63 - April 20, 2008 - Your Walt Disney World Information Station
Welcome to the WDW Radio Show - your Walt Disney World Information Station. I am your host Lou Mongello, and I want to thank you for tuning in again this week. This is show #63 for the week of April 20, 2008. I won’t get a chance to cover the Walt Disney World News this week, not just because there wasn’t a lot to report on, but because I had to tape this show early in the week, as I am heading down to Walt Disney World to cover Disney’s Animal Kingdom’s 10th Anniversary celebration on Tuesday, April 22. I’ll be back next week with not just coverage of the event, but live audio from the parks, and a few surprises. This week, I welcome back Cara Goldsbury, author of the Luxury Guide to Walt Disney World to the show, as we talk about her appearance on two new Travel Channel specials as they continue their Season of Disney series. Cara will be appearing on both the Disney Splurge and the Disney Royal Treatment shows, and will discuss each of these, as well as tips on how to splurge on some special events without breaking the bank, some luxurious experiences in Walt Disney World, and we have some fun as we wonder how you could spend a day in Disney if money was no object. As part of my celebration of Disney’s Animal Kingdom’s 10th anniversary, this week we will take a practical look at the park, as Jeff Pepper and I talk about A Day at Disney’s Animal Kingdom – how to get the most out of what the park has to offer by spending a full day there – and more! In response to many of your travel and vacation planning emails, I welcome in Beci Mankhen, owner of Mouse Fan Travel. She’ll tell us a little bit about her company and how they can help plan your Walt Disney World vacation, as well as assist me in answering a number of your emails. They include questions about balloon rides over Walt Disney World, Grand Gatherings, a detailed discussion of the Disney Dining Experience Card versus the Annual Pass discounts, special events and more. Be sure to stay until the end of the show, when I’ll play some of your voicemails. So sit back, relax and enjoy this week’s episode of the WDW Radio Show. You can email the show at lou@wdwradio.com or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW (4939). Visit the web site at wdwradio.com. Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com. Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!
Apr 14, 2008 · 1 hr 51 min
WDW Radio Show # 62 - April 13, 2008 - Your Walt Disney World Information Station
Welcome to the WDW Radio Show - your Walt Disney World Information Station. I am your host Lou Mongello, and I want to thank you for tuning in again this week. This is show #62 for the week of April 13, 2008. In Walt Disney World News this week, I’ll cover Star Wars Weekends, the demise of the Virtual Magic Kingdom, a new restaurant coming to Walt Disney World and more. Another of Walt Disney World’s Hidden Treasures is one that is not just one that’s always in plain sight and often overlooked, but is really a Best of the Best, and to some, even a true wonder of Walt Disney World. It’s all around us, is magnificent to behold, and is an integral part of the magic and storytelling of the parks and resorts. Listener Barry Frechette joins me as we tour the parks to explore the beauty of the gardens and landscapes of Walt Disney World, as we invite you to literally stop and smell the roses on your next visit. I am thrilled to welcome back to the show one of my all-time favorite guests, Samantha Brown from the Travel Channel. She joins me to discuss her new special featuring her top Disney favorites, as she talks about what she loves about Walt Disney World, including her personal favorite attractions, helpful hints, a typical day of shooting in the parks, and so much more, as her new show kicks off a Season Of Disney on the Travel Channel, much to the delight of fans of the parks. Jeff Pepper joins me as we answer some of your listener email, including questions about La Carnivale de Lumiere, hidden treasures of Epcot, Disney Quest rumors, corporate sponsors and more. I’ll play some of your voicemails at the end of the show, so sit back, relax and enjoy this week’s episode of the WDW Radio Show. You can email the show at lou@wdwradio.com or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW (4939). Visit the web site at wdwradio.com. Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com. Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!
Apr 7, 2008 · 1 hr 25 min
WDW Radio Show # 61 - April 6, 2008 - Your Walt Disney World Information Station
Welcome to the WDW Radio Show - your Walt Disney World Information Station. I am your host Lou Mongello, and I want to thank you for tuning in again this week. This is show #61 for the week of April 6, 2008. In this week’s Walt Disney World News, there is some important information coming from the Walt Disney World Resort about what the future holds for Guests looking to stay on property, as well as more from the resorts and the Magic Kingdom. The Walt Disney World Rumor Mill was quiet this week, but stay tuned next week for more rumors from the parks. I want to also bring you what I can best describe as the Ultimate Guide to the Disney Vacation Club (DVC). I am pleased to be joined by Michael Collier, Quality Assurance Manager for Disney’s Vacation Club, who spends some time with me not only answering some frequently asked questions, but explains the process, cost, point system and benefits. He will also help clear up some of the misconceptions and concerns, explains what happens once you step inside one of the kiosks located around property, and so much more. It is an in-depth look at all aspects of the DVC, and why the Disney Vacation Club might be right for you and your family. In my continuing tribute to Disney’s Animal Kingdom’s 10th Anniversary, which is being celebrated in the parks this coming Earth Day, April 22, I want to once again welcome one of Disney’s Animal Kingdom’s Cast Members that works backstage to help make the magic happen for us onstage. He is a Zoological Manager at Disney’s Animal Kingdom’s Animal Nutrition Center, who gives us a unique look at just how the thousands of animals at the parks and resorts get their share of the exceptional dining options at Walt Disney World. I’ll answer more of your emails about half-day tickets, the International Gateway, Darkwing Duck in Walt Disney World and more. I’ll also play some of your voicemails at the end of the show, so sit back, relax and enjoy this week’s episode of the WDW Radio Show. You can email the show at lou@wdwradio.com or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW (4939). Visit the web site at wdwradio.com. Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com. Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!
Mar 31, 2008 · 1 hr 15 min
WDW Radio Show # 60 - March 30, 2008 - Your Walt Disney World Information Station
Welcome to the WDW Radio Show - your Walt Disney World Information Station. This is show #60 for the week of March 30, 2008. I am your host Lou Mongello, and this week I am coming to you LIVE from Walt Disney World, as I am standing on the promenade of World Showcase in Epcot, enjoying the sights, sounds and scents of the 15th Annual Epcot Flower and Garden Festival. Thank to the assistance of the Walt Disney World Company and so many wonderful Cast Members, I have a special show for you this week, as I not only have a review of the Festival from right here from the park, but an exclusive interview with someone whose job it is to really make dreams come true, as she is Carrie Schoen, the Manager of the Disney Dream Squad, and she will reveal what it’s like to truly make magic, a day in the life of a Dream Squad member, what’s in store for 2008 and more. As we get ready for Disney’s Animal Kingdom’s 10th Anniversary next month, I will also take you along with me on a ride on the Kilimanjaro Safari unlike any that you have taken in the past, as John Lehnhardt, Director of Animal Operations for Disney’s Animal Kingdom gives us a fascinating tour of the Safari that you can’t get anywhere else. Ride along with us on this personal tour that is a fun, informative adventure. There’s much more on this week’s show, so sit back, relax and enjoy this week’s episode of the WDW Radio Show. . You can email the show at lou@wdwradio.com or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW (4939). Visit the web site at wdwradio.com. Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com. Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!
Mar 24, 2008 · 1 hr 11 min
WDW Radio Show # 59 - March 23, 2008 - Your Walt Disney World Information Station
Welcome to the WDW Radio Show - your Walt Disney World Information Station. This is show #59 for the week of March 23, 2008. As always I am your host Lou Mongello, and thanks for taking time to tune in again this week. I will begin this week with News coming out of Walt Disney World which includes information about some new Mickey ears that you can customize and design yourself, the Epcot Flower & Garden Festival, as well as news from the Studios and resorts. In the Walt Disney World Rumor Mill, I’ll talk about cars in the Magic Kingdom – and I’m talking about the attraction and not the movie, a new character you just might see walking (or rolling) around Disney’s Hollywood Studios, as well as some of the cast of characters that you might just see walking around during Star Wars Weekends this summer. Steve Barrett, author of the Hidden Mickeys series of books will join me this week as we start a new series of themed Hidden Mickey hunts, and we’ll begin under the sea (literally) at the Seas pavilion in Epcot. Listener Sarah Kelleth and I will take a look at yet another one of Walt Disney World’s Hidden Treasures and simple pleasures, as we one of the most unique dining experiences in all of Walt Disney World – afternoon tea at the Grand Floridian Resort & Spa’s Garden View Tea Room. I’m way behind in answering your listener email, so I’ll respond to some of your questions, which include topics such as making reservations for 2009, Grand Gatherings, the clubs of Pleasure Island, DeVine, the Tiki Room and more. So sit back, relax and enjoy this week’s episode of the WDW Radio Show. You can email the show at lou@wdwradio.com or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW (4939). Visit the web site at wdwradio.com. Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com. Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!
Mar 24, 2008 · 1 hr 55 min
WDW Radio Show # 58 - March 16, 2008 - Your Walt Disney World Information Station
Welcome to the WDW Radio Show - your Walt Disney World Information Station. This is show #58 for the week of March 16, 2008. I am your host Lou Mongello, and I want to thank you for tuning in again this week I just returned from Disneyland in California, and wanted to not just take a look back at my trip, but wanted it to be informative and interesting for the listener. I was pleasantly surprised at just how much I enjoyed my experience at the parks, and realized that there was so much to discuss and introduce people to, that I invited in my friends, travel companions and frequent WDW Radio Show guests Jeff Pepper, George Taylor and Eric Hollister in for a roundtable discussion simply entitled: Why Every Walt Disney World Fan Needs to Visit Disneyland. Because of the length of the segment, I'll save the WDW News and Rumor Mill for next week, as well as your emails, so sit back, relax and enjoy this week’s episode of the WDW Radio Show. You can email the show at lou@wdwradio.com or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW (4939). Visit the web site at wdwradio.com. Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com. Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!
Mar 9, 2008 · 1 hr 35 min
WDW Radio Show # 57 - March 9, 2008 - Your Walt Disney World Information Station
Welcome to the WDW Radio Show - your Walt Disney World Information Station. This is show #57 for the week of March 9, 2008. I am your host Lou Mongello, and I want to thank you for tuning in again this week. To all of my new listeners, I want to welcome you to the show as well. I think you’ll find it a positive, fun, feel-good look at Walt Disney World that will inform, educate and entertain you. This weekend, I’m heading to Disneyland in California to compare and contrast the two parks… OK, so I’m going to Disneyland to enjoy the parks for a few days, so unfortunately this week, I’m once again recording early and won’t have the ability to cover news and rumors due to when I’m recording. Of course, I’ll be back next week with all of the WDW news and visit to the Rumor Mill. Next month, Disney’s Animal Kingdom will be celebrating its 10th Anniversary, and following the success of Celebration 25, Adam Roth and his team have put together WDWCelebrations.com and have organized “A Wild Decade,” a gathering to commemorate this occasion. I’m joined by Adam and another member of the team, Jason Diffendal, to discuss the event and how you can get involved. Tim Forster, from Guide to the Magic, is back for another Top 10 with Tim, as we reveal our individual top 10 snacks to enjoy in World Showcase. Any discussion of food in Walt Disney World is fun, and in the process, we hope to introduce you to some snacks that you just may have overlooked, or never thought to try. It’s a fat-free trip around the promenade, guaranteed to leave you hungry at the end. I often get questions about some recommended reading and books that I enjoy about Walt Disney World, Disney history, etc., so this week, I bring in another guest, George Taylor from the Imaginerding blog to examine and discuss the 5 books that every Disney geek needs in their library. I won’t have time to answer any of your emails this week, but listen for some voicemails at the end of the show, so as always, please sit back, relax and enjoy this week’s episode of the WDW Radio Show. You can email the show at lou@wdwradio.com or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW (4939). Visit the web site at wdwradio.com. Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com. Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!
Mar 2, 2008 · 1 hr 32 min
WDW Radio Show # 56 - March 2, 2008 - Your Walt Disney World Information Station
Welcome to the WDW Radio Show - your Walt Disney World Information Station. This is show #56 for the week of March 2, 2008. I just returned from Walt Disney World, and in addition to getting some work done for the next CD and new features I’m going to be adding to the site, I also came back with some great information for both the Walt Disney World News section, as well as the Rumor Mill. In fact, there is SO much to cover this week that I invite Jeff Pepper to come in and discuss with me the variety of topics this week. In the News, we’ll talk about some changes coming to Extra Magic Hours, The Kingdom Tower, how to enjoy the resorts right at home, a new meet and greet, an exclusive look at the new Disney Parks television specials coming to the Travel Channel, and more. The Rumor Mill is full this week, as we talk about some big changes coming to the Magic Kingdom turnstiles and FASTPASS systems, is Illuminations really leaving, and a super-sneak peek at new Star Wars Weekends merchandise. We’ll also talk about Star Tours 2 point NO?, Indiana Jones at the Studios, and so so much more. Celebrating its 5th anniversary, MagicMeets is returning this summer for another fan gathering in Camp Hill, PA. Founder Fred Block joins me to discuss the event, some of the featured speakers, and how you can be a part of it. We have a lot to cover this week, so sit back, relax and enjoy this week’s episode of the WDW Radio Show. You can email the show at lou@wdwradio.com or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW (4939). Visit the web site at wdwradio.com. Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com. Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!
Feb 24, 2008 · 1 hr 11 min
WDW Radio Show # 55 - February 24, 2008 - Your Walt Disney World Information Station
Welcome to the WDW Radio Show - your Walt Disney World Information Station. This is Show #55 for the week of February 24, 2008. This week, I once again have to record and produce the show early, so it may be a little shorter and a little different than usual. I’ll start off as always with some Walt Disney World News, where I’ll discuss an exciting new promotion for Annual Passholders. In my trip aboard the Walt Disney World Wayback Machine, I’m going to grab my swimming trunks, pick up Jeff Pepper, and head on over to the Ole Swimmin’ Hole at River Country, Walt Disney World first water park, and a place that conjures up great memories of water slides, sand beaches, picnics and some great times spent with family. Now closed, it’s a fun look back at the history, attractions and demise of this very unique destination. I’ll also have time to answer some more of your emails this week, so sit back, relax and enjoy this week’s episode of the WDW Radio Show. You can email the show at lou@wdwradio.com or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW (4939). Visit the web site at wdwradio.com. Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com. Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!
Feb 17, 2008 · 1 hr 22 min
WDW Radio Show # 54 - February 17, 2008 - Your Walt Disney World Information Station
Welcome to the WDW Radio Show - your Walt Disney World Information Station. This is Show #54 for the week of February 17, 2008. In this week’s Walt Disney World News, I’ll look at a dining change in World Showcase, updates on the Backlot Theater in Disney’s Hollywood Studios, new special events coming to Pleasure Island, and a very special event that is the first of its kind at Walt Disney World that will offer a truly unique experience in many ways. For the next in my Legends of Disney Imagineering interview series, I thought that with the recent name change of the Disney-MGM Studios to Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and new direction it is taking in its entertainment offerings, I wanted to have someone come on the show who could speak authoritatively as to the genesis and growth of the park. So I decided that who better to come on the show and talk about this than the man who literally put pen to paper and designed the original concept drawing for the Disney-MGM Studios. He is former Walt Disney Imagineering designer; artist; show creator and so much more, Tim Kirk. He will join me to discuss the history of the Studios, his work on helping form not only the original concept for the park, but his work on some of its premier attractions such as the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, The Great Movie Ride, MuppetVision 3D, Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular, and countless others. It is a unique, first-hand look at the creation of the theme park and its signature attractions. I’ll also have time to answer some more of your emails this week, so sit back, relax and enjoy this week’s episode of the WDW Radio Show. You can email the show at lou@wdwradio.com or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW (4939). Visit the web site at wdwradio.com. Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com. Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!
Feb 10, 2008 · 1 hr 27 min
WDW Radio Show # 53 - February 10, 2008 - Your Walt Disney World Information Station
Welcome to the WDW Radio Show - your Walt Disney World Information Station. This is Show #53 for the week of February 10, 2008. I’m your host Lou Mongello, and I want to thank you for tuning in again this week we celebrate the one-year anniversary of the WDW Radio Show. Although I’ve been podcasting since 2005, this past week marked the first anniversary of this show, and I want to take a moment to thank all of you for your support and for listening over the past year. It’s been an incredible, amazing journey, and I believe that things will only continue to get bigger and better. In fact, I have to tell you that I am more excited about this week’s show than I may have ever been, in large part due to my very special guest. Joining me this week in an exclusive interview is Samantha Brown, host of a number of popular series on the Travel Channel, including a number of specials all about Walt Disney World. She has explored some of the finest resorts on property, as well as the incredible experiences that Guests can enjoy during one of the most magical of seasons. My conversation with Samantha will talk about her work on the Disney park and resorts specials, including the most recent Holidays at Walt Disney World, and she reveals what’s next for her and the Travel Channel as she continues to entertain us with her travels to and exploration of the Disney resorts. Being a long time fan of her work, this interview was not only fun and exciting to do, but one that I think you’re really going to enjoy. In this week’s Walt Disney World News, we’ll cover some of the latest news, including announcing the Star Wars weekend dates for 2008, and I reveal the new live, interactive and high-energy attraction that’s coming to Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Let’s just say that if you ever wanted to be a star and were looking for your big break, here’s your chance! The Walt Disney World Rumor Mill for this week has a number of big stories, including an Epcot pavilion possibly losing a sponsor, a rumored new attraction based on a Disney film that just might surprise you, and a very big, semi-confirmed rumor about not just demolition, but more importantly new construction at one of Walt Disney World’s resorts. This one could be big, so stay tuned. With the recent re-opening of the attraction, I’ll also have a full review of the updated Playhouse Disney – Live on Stage show at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, courtesy of a listener. Speaking of new things coming to Walt Disney World, I’ll also speak with another listener who gives a first-hand, detailed review of Disney’s Magical Connection, the handheld device currently being tested in the Magic Kingdom. You can learn not only about what the device does and how it works, but hear from a Guest just what they think of the device and technology. And as part of this anniversary show, I will also announce the new project I’ve been working on and alluding to for some time now. It’s going to be released soon, and I wanted to give you the first glimpse at what I have planned. It’s something I’m really excited about, and hope that you’ll enjoy. I won't have time for your emails this week, but as always, stay tuned for the end of the show, where I play a number of your voicemails. So sit back, relax and enjoy this week’s episode of the WDW Radio Show. You can email the show at lou@wdwradio.com or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW (4939). Visit the web site at wdwradio.com. Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com. Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!
Feb 3, 2008 · 57 min
WDW Radio Show # 52 - February 3, 2008 - Your Walt Disney World Information Station
Welcome to the WDW Radio Show - your Walt Disney World Information Station. This is Show #52 for the week of February 3, 2008. I want to thank you for tuning in again this week. I visit the Walt Disney World Rumor Mill this week and talk about recent permits filed by Disney about the Imagination pavilion, and a survey about Guest experiences at Walt Disney World with some very interesting questions. In honor of the upcoming Chinese New Year, Jeff and I do another DSI: Disney Scene Investigation, and this week, we explore the beauty, mystery and symbolism of the China pavilion in Epcot’s World Showcase. I'll answer more of your emails and stay tuned for the end of the show, where I play a number of your voicemails. So sit back, relax and enjoy this week’s episode of the WDW Radio Show. You can email the show at lou@wdwradio.com or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW (4939). Visit the web site at wdwradio.com. Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com. Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!
Jan 29, 2008 · 1 hr 1 min
WDW Radio Show # 51 - January 27, 2008 - Your Walt Disney World Information Station
Welcome to the WDW Radio Show - your Walt Disney World Information Station. This is Show #51 for the week of January 27, 2008. Unexpected circumstances have prevented me from producing a regular show this week with a variety of segments. However, this is a great opportunity to answer many of your listener emails that cover a broad range of topics, so Jeff Pepper will join me as we answer your questions together. Next week’s show will return to its regular format, so sit back, relax and enjoy this week’s episode of the WDW Radio Show. You can email the show at lou@wdwradio.com or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW (4939). Visit the web site at wdwradio.com. Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com. Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!
Jan 21, 2008 · 1 hr 46 min
WDW Radio Show # 50 - January 20, 2008 - Your Walt Disney World Information Station
Welcome to the WDW Radio Show - your Walt Disney World Information Station. This is Show #50 for the week of January 20, 2008. Thank you for tuning in again this week. With not a lot of Walt Disney World News to report this week, we'll jump right in to a visit to the Walt Disney World Rumor Mill, where we'll talk about what’s going on (and up) at Disney's Contemporary Resort, more updates on the rumor of handheld devices in the parks, possible changes going on throughout the resort property-wide and more. After that, it's all about the recent Walt Disney World Half Marathon, as I invite Mike Scopa and Bryan Ripper to join me in a roundtable recap of the weekend's events. It’s a fun look back at an exciting weekend for both runners and spectators alike, and offers some great tips for people who may be considering running next year. Afterwards, Eric Hollister joins me as we not only announce the winner of the 13th and final mile marker challenge, but the Grand Prize and winner as well. We also look back at what was a fun contest that gave back to the community and touched the lives of many people in a number of different ways. We'll have time to play a few of your voicemails, and will answer many more of your emails next week. So sit back, relax and enjoy this week’s episode of the WDW Radio Show. You can email the show at lou@wdwradio.com or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW (4939). Visit the web site at WDWradio.com. Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com. Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!